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Becoming a parent at any age is challenging, and even more so when you are still in your teens. Young mum Sarah* was 15 when she found out she was pregnant.

Sarah was used to enjoying a busy, party lifestyle with her friends, but she soon began to spend most of her time just staying at home and was scared about what was ahead. By the time she sat her GCSE exams she was 32 weeks pregnant and was tired all the time.

Sarah is now 18, has a 20-month old son, she is trying to juggle being a mum with her work life,al life, work life and home life at the same time.

Talking about her experience, Sarah said: "I love my son, but he certainly wasn't planned. When you're a teenager you have your whole life and career ahead of you. Having a baby is a massive change, both physically and mentally. I know everyone will be telling you that, but listen to someone that's been there and got the t-shirt. Having a baby is not easy and it's something that needs 100% dedication."

Sarah found support at her local Sure Start group. They helped by giving her advice about how to look after her baby and providing information on how to get back into education. She also spoke with the Personal Assistant at Connexions and is now happily working as an apprentice, while studying an NVQ.

* name changed